Surgical stapling apparatus

ABSTRACT

A surgical stapling apparatus is provided including a cartridge assembly defining a tissue contacting surface; an anvil assembly defining a tissue contacting surface; and a surgical buttress releasably secured to at least one of the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly and the tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly by at least one anchor. A loading unit is provided including a surgical buttress releasably secured to an anvil assembly and/or a staple cartridge secured thereto by at least one anchor, and a drive assembly including a knife blade, wherein movement of the drive assembly from a proximal position to a distal position results in the knife blade cutting the at least one anchor and freeing each surgical buttress from the anvil assembly and/or cartridge assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/528,526 filed Aug. 25, 2009, which is a National Stage Application of PCT/US2008/002981 under 35USC §371 (a), which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/905,566 filed Mar. 6, 2007, the disclosures of each of the above-identified applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a surgical apparatus, e.g., a surgical stapling apparatus. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a surgical stapling apparatus including a detachable surgical buttress and/or an endoscopic surgical stapling apparatus that includes a detachable surgical buttress for a loading unit, e.g., a single use loading unit (“SULU”) or disposable loading unit (“DLU”). For simplicity, hereinafter, SULU or DLU will be referred to as “DLU”, but it should be understood to include either or both a DLU or SULU.

2. Background of Related Art

Surgical devices wherein tissue is first grasped or clamped between opposing jaw structure and then joined by surgical fasteners are well known in the art. In some instruments a knife is provided to cut the tissue which has been joined by the fasteners. The fasteners are typically in the form of surgical staples but two part polymeric fasteners can also be utilized.

Instruments for this purpose can include two elongated jaw members which are respectively used to capture or clamp tissue. Typically, one of the jaw members carries a staple cartridge which houses a plurality of staples arranged in at least two lateral rows while the other jaw member has an anvil that defines a surface for forming the staple legs as the staples are driven from the staple cartridge. Generally, the stapling operation is effected by cam members that travel longitudinally through the staple cartridge, with the cam members acting upon staple pushers to sequentially eject the staples from the staple cartridge. A knife can travel between the staple rows to longitudinally cut and/or open the stapled tissue between the rows of staples. Such instruments are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,079,606 and U.S. Pat. No. 3,490,675.

A later stapler disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,499,591 also applies a double row of staples on each side of the incision. This patent discloses a surgical stapler that has a disposable loading unit in which a cam member moves through an elongate guide path between two sets of staggered staple carrying grooves. Staple drive members are located within the grooves and are positioned in such a manner so as to be contacted by the longitudinally moving cam member to effect ejection of the staples from the staple cartridge of the disposable loading unit. Other examples of such staplers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,429,695 and 5,065,929.

Each of the instruments described above is designed for use in conventional surgical procedures wherein surgeons have direct manual access to the operative site. However, in endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures, surgery is performed through a small incision or through a narrow cannula inserted through small entrance wounds in the skin. In order to address the specific needs of endoscopic and/or laparoscopic surgical procedures, endoscopic surgical stapling devices have been developed and are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,040,715 (Green, et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 5,307,976 (Olson, et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 5,312,023 (Green, et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 5,318,221 (Green, et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 5,326,013 (Green, et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 5,332,142 (Robinson, et al.); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,139 (Milliman et al.), the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Tyco Healthcare Group, LP, the assignee of the present application, has manufactured and marketed endoscopic stapling instruments, such as the Multifire ENDO GIA™. 30 and Multifire ENDO GIA™. 60 instruments, for a number of years. These instruments include a surgical stapling apparatus and a DLU. Typically, the DLU is attached to the apparatus immediately prior to surgery. After use, the DLU can be removed from the apparatus and a new DLU can be fastened to the apparatus to perform additional stapling and/or cutting operations. These instruments have provided significant clinical benefits. Nonetheless, improvements to these instruments are still possible.

It would be desirable to provide a surgical buttress selectively connected to at least one of the tissue contacting surfaces of the cartridge half-section and the anvil half-section of the surgical stapling apparatus.

It would also be desirable to provide a system for removing the surgical buttress from the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge half-section and/or the tissue contacting surface of the anvil half-section during a firing of the surgical stapling apparatus.

Accordingly, it is an object of this disclosure to meet the aforementioned desires.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present disclosure a surgical stapling apparatus is provided including a housing; a handle supported by the housing; an elongated body extending distally from the housing and having a distal end adapted to releasably engage a loading unit; and a loading unit supportable on a distal end of the housing. The loading unit includes a tool assembly having a cartridge assembly configured and adapted to releasably support a staple cartridge having a plurality of surgical fasteners therein, and an anvil assembly movably secured in relation to the cartridge assembly, wherein the anvil assembly is configured and adapted to support an anvil plate and, wherein each of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge define an elongate longitudinal slot. The loading unit further includes a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of at least one of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge, wherein each surgical buttress is secured to the at least one of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly by at least one anchor. The loading unit still further includes a drive assembly slidably supported in the tool assembly, the drive assembly including a knife blade slidably disposed within each elongate longitudinal slot, wherein movement of the drive assembly from a proximal position to a distal position results in the knife blade thereof cutting the at least one anchor and freeing each surgical buttress from the respective at least one anvil assembly and cartridge assembly.

The anvil assembly may include a proximal suture securing the surgical buttress thereto and/or a distal anchor securing the surgical buttress thereto. The cartridge assembly may include a proximal anchor securing the surgical buttress thereto and/or a distal anchor securing the surgical buttress thereto. Each anchor of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly may extend across the respective longitudinal slot of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge.

The anvil assembly may include a knife blade slidably or rotatably supported therein and defining a knife edge. The knife blade of the anvil assembly may cut at least one of the proximal and distal anchors of the anvil assembly upon actuation thereof. The knife blade of the anvil assembly may have a first position located substantially proximal of the distal anchor of the anvil assembly and a second position located substantially distal of the distal anchor of the anvil assembly, thereby cutting the distal anchor of the anvil assembly. The drive assembly may move the knife blade of the anvil assembly from the first position to the second position upon distal actuation of the drive assembly.

The cartridge assembly may include a knife blade slidably or rotatably supported therein and defining a knife edge, wherein the knife blade of the cartridge assembly cuts at least one of the proximal and distal anchors of the cartridge assembly upon actuation thereof. The knife blade of the cartridge assembly may have a first position located substantially proximal of the distal anchor of the cartridge assembly and a second position located substantially distal of the distal anchor of the cartridge assembly, thereby cutting the distal anchor of the cartridge assembly. The drive assembly may move the knife blade of the cartridge assembly from the first position to the second position upon distal actuation of the drive assembly.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a loading unit for use with a surgical stapling apparatus is provided. The loading unit includes a tool assembly having a cartridge assembly configured and adapted to releasably support a staple cartridge having a plurality of surgical fasteners therein, and an anvil assembly movably secured in relation to the cartridge assembly, wherein the anvil assembly is configured and adapted to support an anvil plate and, wherein each of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge define an elongate longitudinal slot. The loading unit also includes a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of at least one of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge, wherein each surgical buttress is secured to the at least one of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly by at least one anchor. The loading unit further includes a drive assembly slidably supported in the tool assembly, the drive assembly including a knife blade slidably disposed within each elongate longitudinal slot, wherein movement of the drive assembly from a proximal position to a distal position results in the knife blade thereof cutting the at least one anchor and freeing each surgical buttress from the respective at least one anvil assembly and cartridge assembly.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a loading unit for selective use with a surgical stapling apparatus is provided. The loading unit includes a tool assembly having a cartridge assembly configured and adapted to releasably support a staple cartridge having a plurality of surgical fasteners therein, and an anvil assembly movably secured in relation to the cartridge assembly, wherein the anvil assembly is configured and adapted to support an anvil plate and, wherein each of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge define an elongate longitudinal slot. The loading unit further includes a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of each of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge; and anchors securing the surgical buttress to each of the anvil plate and the staple cartridge, wherein an anchor is located near a proximal end and a distal end of each of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly. The loading unit also includes a knife blade operatively disposed in the anvil assembly, wherein the knife blade of the anvil assembly has a first position located proximal of a distal anchor of the anvil assembly and a second position located distal of the distal anchor of the anvil assembly, thereby cutting the distal anchor of the anvil assembly. The loading unit still further includes a knife blade operatively disposed in the cartridge assembly, wherein the knife blade of the cartridge assembly has a first position located proximal of a distal anchor of the cartridge assembly and a second position located distal of the distal anchor of the cartridge assembly, thereby cutting the distal anchor of the cartridge assembly. The loading unit also includes a drive assembly slidably supported in the tool assembly, the drive assembly including a knife blade slidably disposed within each elongate longitudinal slot, wherein movement of the drive assembly from a proximal position to a distal position results in the knife blade thereof cutting a proximal anchor of each of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly and freeing a proximal end of each surgical buttress from the respective at least one anvil assembly and cartridge assembly, and wherein movement of the drive assembly from the proximal position to the distal position moves the knife blade of the anvil assembly and the knife blade of the cartridge assembly from their respective first positions to their respective second positions, thereby cutting a respective distal anchor of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly and freeing a distal end of each surgical buttress from the respective at least one anvil assembly and cartridge assembly.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical stapling apparatus is provided. The surgical stapling apparatus includes a cartridge assembly defining a tissue contacting surface; an anvil assembly defining a tissue contacting surface; and a surgical buttress releasably secured to at least one of the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly and the tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly by at least one anchor.

An anchor may be placed near at least one of a proximal end and a distal end of each surgical buttress. Each anchor may extend transverse to a longitudinal axis of a respective one of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly.

The anchor may be selected from the group consisting of sutures, threads, tethers, straps, bands, lines, wires, cables, tacks, anchors, and fasteners.

At least a proximal anchor may extend across a respective longitudinal knife slot formed in each of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly and/or at least a distal anchor may extend across a respective longitudinal knife slot formed in each of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly.

The anchor may release a respective surgical buttress upon firing of the surgical stapling apparatus. Each anchor may be severed to release the surgical buttress upon a firing of the surgical stapling apparatus.

The surgical stapling apparatus may include a knife blade configured and dimensioned for slidable reciprocation through a respective longitudinal knife slot formed in each of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly, wherein the knife blade severs an anchor upon distal advancement thereof.

The surgical stapling apparatus may further include a drive assembly slidably supported for axial displacement along the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly, wherein movement of the drive assembly from a proximal position to a distal position results in the separation of the surgical buttress from a respective one of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly.

An anchor may be placed near at least one of a proximal end and a distal end of each surgical buttress. The drive assembly may either directly cut each anchor or may cause each anchor to be cut in order to release the surgical buttress from the respective cartridge assembly and anvil assembly.

Additional advantages will become apparent from the description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts in the several views, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical stapling apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a top, exploded perspective view of a distal end of a DLU of the surgical stapling apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top, perspective view of the DLU of FIG. 2, shown in an assembled condition;

FIG. 4 is a top, perspective view of a distal end of the DLU of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a further top, perspective view of the distal end of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 4, having a top, front cover removed therefrom;

FIG. 6 is a top, perspective view of a proximal end of the DLU of FIGS. 2-5;

FIG. 7 is a side, elevational view of the distal end of the DLU of FIGS. 2-6;

FIG. 8 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the DLU of FIGS. 2-7;

FIG. 9 is a bottom, perspective view of a distal end of an anvil half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2-8, illustrating a knife assembly associated therewith;

FIG. 10 is a bottom, perspective view of a proximal end of the anvil half-section of FIG. 9, illustrating the knife assembly associated therewith;

FIG. 11 is a top, perspective view of a distal end of a cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIG. 2;

FIG. 12 is a side, elevational view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 11

FIG. 13 is a bottom, perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2, 11 and 12;

FIG. 14 is a further bottom, perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 11-13;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged, perspective view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is a bottom, enlarged, perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 11-15;

FIG. 17 is a bottom, plan view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 11-16;

FIG. 18 is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 11-17;

FIG. 19 is a bottom, perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 2 and 11-18;

FIG. 20 is an exploded, perspective view of a distal end of a DLU of the surgical stapling apparatus of FIG. 1, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is perspective view of the distal end of the DLU of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a top, perspective view of a distal end of an anvil half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 20 and 21;

FIG. 23 is a bottom, perspective view of the distal end of the anvil half-section of FIG. 22, having an anvil plate removed therefrom;

FIG. 24 is a top, perspective view of a proximal end of the anvil half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 20 and 21;

FIG. 25 is a bottom, perspective view of the proximal end of the anvil half-section of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a top, perspective view of a cartridge half-section of the DLU of FIGS. 20 and 21;

FIG. 27 is a top, perspective view of a distal end of the cartridge half-section of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a top, perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of FIG. 27, having a blade stop insert removed therefrom;

FIG. 29 is a side elevational view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a top, perspective view of the blade stop insert of the cartridge half-section of FIGS. 26 and 27;

FIG. 31 is a bottom, perspective view of the blade stop insert of the cartridge half-section of FIGS. 26 and 27;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge half-section of FIGS. 26 and 27, having a distal nose cap removed therefrom;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a distal end of a cartridge assembly, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, of a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a distal end of an anvil assembly, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, of a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus;

FIG. 35 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the anvil assembly of FIG. 34, illustrating a knife blade thereof in a first position;

FIG. 36 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the anvil assembly of FIGS. 34 and 35, illustrating the knife blade thereof in a second position;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a distal end of a cartridge assembly, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, of a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus;

FIG. 38 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 37, illustrating a knife blade thereof in a first position;

FIG. 39 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the cartridge assembly of FIGS. 37 and 38, illustrating the knife blade thereof in a second position;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a distal end of an anvil assembly, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, of a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus;

FIG. 41 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the anvil assembly of FIG. 40, illustrating a knife blade thereof in a first position;

FIG. 42 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the anvil assembly of FIGS. 40 and 41, illustrating the knife blade thereof in a second position;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a distal end of a cartridge assembly, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, of a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus;

FIG. 44 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 43, illustrating a knife blade thereof in a first position;

FIG. 45 is a top, plan view of the distal end of the cartridge assembly of FIGS. 43 and 44, illustrating the knife blade thereof in a second position;

FIG. 46 is a schematic, perspective view of a distal end of an anvil assembly, according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, of a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus;

FIG. 47 is an exploded, perspective view of a DLU of the surgical stapling apparatus of FIG. 1, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 48 is a side elevational view of the DLU of FIG. 47;

FIG. 49. is an exploded perspective view of the DLU of FIGS. 47 and 48;

FIG. 50 is an enlarged perspective view of an actuation sled of the DLU of FIGS. 47-49;

FIG. 51 is an enlarged perspective view of the DLU of FIGS. 47-49, shown in a closed condition;

FIG. 52 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 47;

FIG. 53 is a longitudinal cross-sectional elevation view of the DLU, as taken through 53-53 of FIG. 47;

FIG. 54 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 53;

FIG. 55 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 53;

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a cartridge assembly of the DLU of FIGS. 47-49;

FIG. 57 is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 56;

FIG. 58 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 56;

FIG. 59 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 58;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the distal end of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 56;

FIG. 61 is a bottom, perspective view of a knife blade assembly of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 56;

FIG. 62 is a top, perspective view of a knife blade assembly of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 56;

FIG. 63 is a bottom, perspective view of a proximal end of an anvil assembly of the DLU of FIGS. 47-49;

FIG. 64 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the anvil assembly of FIG. 63;

FIG. 65 is a bottom, perspective view of the anvil assembly of FIGS. 63 and 64;

FIG. 66 is a bottom, perspective view of the anvil assembly of FIG. 65, with a buttress removed therefrom;

FIG. 67 is a bottom, perspective view of the anvil assembly of FIG. 65, with a buttress and an anvil plate removed therefrom;

FIG. 68 is a longitudinal cross-sectional elevation view of the DLU, as taken through 53-53 of FIG. 47, illustrating an initial actuation of a drive assembly thereof;

FIG. 69 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 68;

FIG. 70 is a longitudinal cross-sectional elevation view of the DLU, as taken through 53-53 of FIG. 47, illustrating a final actuation of the drive assembly thereof;

FIG. 71 is an enlarged view of the indicated area of detail of FIG. 70;

FIG. 72 is an enlarged distal perspective view of the DLU of FIGS. 70 and 71, following an actuation thereof;

FIG. 73 is a schematic, perspective illustration of the actuation sled engaging a knife blade assembly;

FIG. 74 is a top, plan view of the actuation sled engaging a knife blade assembly; and

FIG. 75 is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end of the cartridge assembly following a complete actuation of the drive assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the presently disclosed surgical stapling apparatus and DLU will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views.

In the drawings and in the description that follows, the term “proximal”, as is traditional, will refer to the end of the stapling apparatus which is closest to the operator, while the term “distal” will refer to the end of the apparatus which is furthest from the operator.

FIG. 1 shows a surgical apparatus, e.g., surgical stapling apparatus, generally referred to as 10. In the interest of brevity, this disclosure will focus primarily on systems, methods and structures for loading, engaging, coupling or connecting a disposable loading unit (“DLU”) 16 to surgical stapling apparatus 10. A detailed discussion of the remaining components and method of use of surgical stapling apparatus 10 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,139.

Surgical stapling apparatus 10 is an endoscopic apparatus and includes a handle assembly 12 and an elongated body 14 extending from handle assembly 12. A DLU 16 is releasably secured to the distal end of elongated body 14. While this disclosure relates to the use of a DLU with surgical stapling apparatus 10, it is understood and within the scope of the present disclosure that a single use loading unit (SULU) or other end effector and/or tool assembly can equally be used in cooperation with surgical stapling apparatus 10.

DLU 16 includes a tool assembly 17 having a cartridge assembly 18 housing a plurality of surgical fasteners or staples 84 (see FIG. 2) and an anvil assembly 20 movably secured in relation to cartridge assembly 18. As shown herein, DLU 16 is configured to apply six (6) linear rows of staples, in DLUs measuring from about 30 mm to about 60 mm in length. DLUs for applying any number of rows of staples, having staple pockets arranged in various patterns and/or DLUs and end effectors having any other lengths, e.g., 45 mm, are also envisioned. Handle assembly 12 includes a stationary handle member 22, a movable handle member 24, and a barrel portion 26.

A rotatable member 28 is mounted on the forward end of barrel portion 26 to facilitate rotation of elongated body 14 and attached DLU 16 with respect to handle assembly 12. An articulation lever 30 is also mounted on the forward end of barrel portion 26 adjacent rotatable member 28 to facilitate articulation of tool assembly 17. Preferably, a pair of knobs 32 are movably positioned along barrel portion 26. Knobs 32 are advanced distally to approximate or close cartridge and/or anvil assembly 18, 20, and retracted proximally to unapproximate or open cartridge and/or anvil assembly 18, 20.

DLU 16 is desirably selectively removably couplable to elongated body 14. DLU 16 includes a housing portion 36 having a proximal end adapted to releasably engage the distal end of elongated body 14. A mounting assembly 38 is pivotally secured at “P” to the distal end of housing portion 36, and is configured to receive the proximal end of tool assembly 17 such that pivotal movement of tool assembly 17 about an axis at “P”, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of housing portion 36, effects articulation of tool assembly 17.

With general reference to FIGS. 2-8, DLU 16 includes a mounting assembly 40. Mounting assembly 40 includes an upper and a lower mounting portion 40 a, 40 b, respectively. A centrally located pivot member 42 extends from each of upper and lower mounting portions 40 a, 40 b.

An axial drive assembly 50 is operatively associated with and slidably disposed between cartridge and/or anvil assembly 18, 20. With reference to FIG. 2, axial drive assembly 50 includes an elongated drive beam 52 having a distal end 54 and a proximal end 56. Drive beam 52 may be constructed from a single sheet of material or, preferably, multiple stacked sheets.

Proximal end 56 of drive beam 52 of drive assembly 50 includes a pair of resilient engagement fingers which are dimensioned and configured to mountingly engage a drive member, e.g., a drive rod or control rod (not shown) when the proximal end of DLU 16 is engaged with elongated body 14 of surgical stapling apparatus 10. The control rod functions to impart axial movement of drive assembly 50 from handle assembly 12.

Distal end 54 of drive beam 52 of drive assembly 50 is configured and adapted to support an I-Beam 60. I-beam 60 includes a central wall portion 62 and an upper and lower rail portion 64 a, 64 b, respectively. A distal edge of central wall portion 62 defines a knife blade or the like 66.

As seen in FIGS. 2-10, anvil assembly 20 includes an anvil plate 70 having a plurality of staple deforming pockets/cavities 70 a (see FIGS. 9 and 10) and a cover plate 72 secured to a top surface of anvil plate 70, wherein a cavity (not shown) is defined therebetween. The cavity defined between anvil plate 70 and cover plate 72 is dimensioned to slidably receive upper rail portion 64 a of I-beam 60 therein. A longitudinal slot 70 b extends through anvil plate 70 to facilitate passage of central wall portion 62 of I-beam 60 therethrough.

In operation, an upper surface of anvil plate 70 defines a camming surface 70 c against which upper rail portion 64 a of I-beam 60 engages to cam, urge and clamp anvil assembly 20 against the tissue as drive assembly 50 advances I-beam 60 through longitudinal slot 70 b.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2-10, anvil plate 70 defines a proximal pair of recesses 70 d formed near a proximal end of anvil plate 70 and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 70 b. Anvil plate 70 defines a distal pair of recesses 70 e formed near a distal end of anvil plate 70 and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 70 b. In one embodiment, at least one of the recesses of each of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d and the distal pair of recesses 70 e is non-circular, preferably, constricting, so as to frictionally engage and/or pinch an anchor “S”.

As used herein the term anchor is understood to include and is not limited to suture, thread, tether, strap, band, line, wire, cable, fastener, tack, anchor or any other material suitable for the intended purpose disclosed herein.

Anvil assembly 20 further includes a knife blade 74 defining a distally oriented knife edge 74 a and being operatively interposed within the cavity defined between anvil plate 70 and cover plate 72. Knife blade 74 has an initial or first condition positioned proximal of the distal pair of recesses 70 e and a final or second condition positioned distal of the distal pair of recesses 70 e. Knife blade 74 includes an engaging element 74 b, e.g., a recess, formed in a surface thereof for selectively engaging a complementary engaging element, e.g., nub, (not shown) projecting from a surface of cover plate 72, or a distal cap 76 of anvil assembly 20. The engaging elements inter-engage with one another to maintain or hold knife blade 74 stationary and in the initial or first condition.

In an embodiment distal cap 76 includes a pair of opposed recesses 76 a formed in opposed side edges thereof which align with the distal pair of recesses 70 e formed in anvil plate 70 when cover plate 72 is assembled with anvil plate 70. Additionally, cover plate 72 defines a pair of opposed recesses 72 a formed therein which align with the proximal pair of recesses 70 d formed in anvil plate 70 when cover plate 72 is assembled with anvil plate 70.

Anvil assembly 20 further includes a surgical buttress “B”, pledget or the like operatively secured to a lower surface of anvil plate 70, by anchor “S”, to overlie at least some of anvil pockets 70 a and/or at least a portion of a length of longitudinal slot 70 b. In particular, an anchor “S” is threaded through a distal portion of the anvil buttress “B” and each of the distal pair of recesses 70 e, and an anchor “S” is threaded through a proximal portion of anvil buttress “B” and each of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d.

In one particular embodiment, a first end of a anchor “S” includes a knot, stop or the like (not shown) sized so as to not pass through one recess of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d while a second end of anchor “S” passes through, and transversely across, anvil buttress “B”, at least once, and back through the other recess of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d. For example, the second end of anchor “S” may be pinched or cinched in the other recess of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d so as to anchor the second end of the anchor “S” and secure the anvil buttress “B” against the lower surface of anvil plate 70. Similarly, an anchor “S” is used to extend transversely across anvil buttress “B” and into engagement with the distal pair of recesses 70 e.

In operation, as will be discussed in greater detail below, with anvil buttress “B” secured against the lower surface of anvil plate 70, during firing of surgical stapling apparatus 10, as drive assembly 50 is advanced (i.e., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), knife blade 66 slices through a central section of the proximal anchor “S”, thereby freeing the proximal end of the anvil buttress “B” from anvil assembly 20. As drive assembly 50 approaches the distal end of anvil plate 70, upper rail 64 a of I-beam 60 abuts against and urges knife blade 74 distally. As knife blade 74 is moved distally, from the initial or first condition positioned proximal of the distal pair of recesses 70 e to the final or second condition positioned distal of the distal pair of recesses 70 e, knife edge 74 a thereof slices or cuts through distal anchor “S”, thereby freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress “B” from anvil assembly 20. Knife blade 74 cuts through the distal anchor “S” extending through both recesses of the distal pair of recesses 70 e.

As seen in FIGS. 2-8 and 11-19, cartridge assembly 18 includes a carrier 80 defining an elongated support channel 80 a. Elongated support channel 80 a of carrier 80 is dimensioned and configured to selectively receive a staple cartridge 82 therein. Corresponding tabs and slots formed along staple cartridge 82 and carrier 80 function to retain staple cartridge 82 within carrier 80. A pair of support struts formed on and extending from staple cartridge 82 are positioned to rest on side walls of carrier 80 to further stabilize staple cartridge 82 within support channel 80 a of carrier 80. Staple cartridge 82 includes retention slots 82 a formed therein for receiving a plurality of fasteners 84 and pushers 86. A plurality of spaced apart longitudinal slots 82 b extend through staple cartridge 82 to accommodate upstanding cam wedges 90 a of actuation sled 90. Actuation sled 90 includes a central upstanding wedge or wall 90 b. Central wall 90 b defines a distal notch or shoulder 90 c formed therein.

A central longitudinal slot 82 c is formed in and extends along the length of staple cartridge 82 to facilitate passage of central wall portion 62 of I-beam 60 therethrough. During operation of surgical stapler 10, actuation sled 90 translates through longitudinal slots 82 b of staple cartridge 82 to advance cam wedges 90 a into sequential contact with pushers 92, to cause pushers 92 to translate vertically within retention slots 82 a and urge fasteners 84 (e.g., staples) from slots 82 a into the staple forming cavities 70 a of anvil plate 70 of anvil assembly 20.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2 and 11-19, staple cartridge 82 defines a proximal pair of recesses 82 e formed near a proximal end thereof and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 82 c. Staple cartridge 82 further defines a distal pair of recesses 82 f formed near a distal end thereof and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 82 c. In one embodiment, at least one of the recesses of each of the proximal pair of recesses 82 e and the distal pair of recesses 82 f is non-circular, preferably, constricting, so as to frictionally engage and/or pinch an anchor “S”.

Cartridge assembly 18 further includes a knife blade 94 defining a distally oriented knife edge 94 a (see FIGS. 12-17 and 19) and being operatively disposed within a cavity 82 d (see FIGS. 16, 17 and 19) defined near a distal end of staple cartridge 82. Knife blade 94 may include a right side and a left side knife edge 94 a. Knife blade 94 has an initial or first condition positioned proximal of a distal pair of recesses 82 e formed in staple cartridge 82 and a final or second condition positioned distal of the distal pair of recesses 82 e.

Knife blade 94 may include an engaging element (not shown) formed in a surface thereof for selectively engaging a complementary engaging element (not shown) projecting from a surface of staple cartridge 82 of cartridge assembly 18. The engaging elements inter-engage with one another to maintain or hold knife blade 94 stationary and in the initial or first condition.

Cartridge assembly 18 further includes a surgical buttress “B”, pledget or the like operatively secured to an upper surface of staple cartridge 82, by anchors “S”, to overlie at least some of staple pockets 82 a and/or at least a portion of a length of longitudinal slot 82 c. In particular, an anchor “S” is threaded through a distal portion of the cartridge buttress “B” and each of the distal pair of recesses 82 f, and an anchor “S” is threaded through a proximal portion of cartridge buttress “B” and each of the proximal pair of recesses 82 e.

In one particular embodiment, a first end of each anchor “S” includes a knot, stop or the like (not shown) sized so as to not pass through one recess of the proximal pair of recesses 82 e and a second end of each anchor “S” passes through, and transversely across, cartridge buttress “B”, at least once, and back through the other recess of the proximal pair of recesses 82 e. For example, the second end of each anchor “S” may be pinched or cinched in the other recess of the proximal pair of recesses 82 e so as to anchor the second end of the anchor “S” and secure the cartridge buttress “B” against the tissue contacting surface of staple cartridge 82. Similarly, an anchor “S” is used to extend transversely across cartridge buttress “B” and into engagement with the distal pair of recesses 82 f.

In operation, as will be discussed in greater detail below, with cartridge buttress “B” secured against the tissue contacting surface of staple cartridge 82, during firing of surgical stapling apparatus 10, as drive assembly 50 is advanced (i.e., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), knife blade 66 slices through a central section of the proximal anchor “S”, thereby freeing the proximal end of the cartridge buttress “B” from cartridge assembly 18. As seen in FIG. 18, as drive assembly 50 approaches the distal end of staple cartridge 82, shoulder 90 c of central upstanding wedge or wall 90 b of actuation sled 90 abuts against and urges knife blade 94 distally. As knife blade 94 is moved distally, from the initial or first condition positioned proximal of the distal pair of recesses 82 f to the final or second condition positioned distal of the distal pair of recesses 82 f, knife edges 94 a thereof slice or cut through distal anchor “S”, thereby freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B” from cartridge assembly 18. Knife blade 94 cuts through the distal anchor “S” extending through both recesses of the distal pair of recesses 82 f.

As drive assembly 50 is advanced from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position, knife blade 66 thereof slices or cuts longitudinally through both anvil buttress “B” and cartridge buttress “B”, thereby dividing the buttresses “B” substantially in half. Additionally, as drive assembly 50 is advanced from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position, upstanding cam wedges 90 a of actuation sled 90 actuates pushers 92, to cause pushers 92 to translate vertically within retention slots 82 a and urge fasteners 84 from slots 82 a. As fasteners 84 (e.g., staples) are urged from slots 82 a of staple cartridge 82, legs of fasteners 84 penetrate and pass through both anvil buttress “B” and cartridge buttress “B”, through any tissue (not shown) interposed between anvil buttress “B” and cartridge buttress “B”, and are formed against or within staple forming cavities 70 a of anvil plate 70 of anvil assembly 20.

According to the present disclosure, anvil buttress “B” and/or cartridge buttress “B” is pre-loaded (i.e., from the manufacturer) onto anvil assembly 20 or cartridge assembly 18, respectively, of DLU 17. Additional or replacement buttresses “B” for anvil assembly 20 and/or cartridge assembly 18 may be secured to either anvil assembly 20 or cartridge assembly 18 as needed or desired.

In operation, with DLU 17 coupled to a distal end of elongated body 14 of surgical stapling apparatus 10, and with anvil buttress “B” and cartridge buttress “B” pre-loaded onto anvil assembly 20 and cartridge assembly 18, respectively, surgical stapling apparatus 10 is used in accordance with methods known by those skilled in the art. Once anvil assembly 20 and cartridge assembly 18 are clamped onto tissue, surgical stapling apparatus 10 is fired. In firing surgical stapling apparatus 10, drive assembly 50 is advanced from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position. In so doing, knife blade 66 of drive assembly 50 substantially simultaneously slices or cuts through a central section of the proximal anchor “S” of anvil assembly 20 and cartridge assembly 18, thereby respectively freeing the proximal end of anvil buttress “B” and cartridge buttress “B” therefrom.

As drive assembly 50 approaches the distal-most position, upper rail 64 a of I-beam 60 abuts against and urges knife blade 74 distally while, substantially simultaneously or concomitantly therewith, shoulder 90 c of central upstanding wedge or wall 90 b of actuation sled 90 abuts against and urges knife blade 94 distally. As knife blade 74 is moved distally, from the initial position to the final position, knife edge 74 a thereof slices or cuts through distal anchor “S” of anvil assembly 20, thereby freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress “B” from anvil assembly 20. As knife blade 94 is moved distally, from the initial position to the final position, knife edges 94 a thereof slice or cut through distal anchor “S” of cartridge assembly 18, thereby freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B” from cartridge assembly 18.

Also, knife blade 66 of drive assembly 50 substantially simultaneously slices or cuts longitudinally through both anvil buttress “B” and cartridge buttress “B”, thereby dividing the buttresses “B” substantially in half.

Turning now to FIGS. 20-32, a DLU according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, for surgical stapling apparatus 10, is generally designated as 116. DLU 116 is substantially similar to DLU 16 and will only be discussed in detail herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation.

As seen in FIGS. 20-25, anvil assembly 20 of DLU 116 defines a proximal pair of recesses 70 d formed near a proximal end of anvil plate 70 and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 70 b; and a distal pair of recesses 70 e formed near a distal end of anvil plate 70 and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 70 b. As best seen in FIGS. 22, 24 and 25, at least one recess of each of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d and the distal pair of recesses 70 e is in the form of a notch having a constricting configuration so as to frictionally cinch, receive and secure a suture, thread or the like therein.

As seen in FIG. 23, knife blade 74 includes an orientation member 74 c, in the form of a fin or tab, extending from an underside thereof and configured and adapted for slidable engagement in longitudinal slot 70 b of anvil plate 70. Orientation member 74 c functions to help maintain a proper or desired orientation of knife blade 74. For example, orientation member 74 c of knife blade 74 may aid in maintaining knife edge 74 a at a substantially orthogonal orientation with respect to longitudinal slot 70 b.

As seen in FIGS. 20, 21 and 26-32, staple cartridge 82 of cartridge assembly 18 of DLU 116 defines a proximal pair of recesses 82 e formed near a proximal end thereof and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 82 c; and a distal pair of recesses 82 f formed near a distal end thereof and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 82 c.

In an embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 20 and 26, it is contemplated that staple cartridge 82 may include at least one post extending from an upper surface thereof, and the surgical buttress “B” that is to overlie staple cartridge 82 may include a respective complementary aperture formed therein. In this manner, when surgical buttress “B” is placed on staple cartridge 82, the aperture(s) thereof and the post(s) of staple cartridge 82 cooperate with one another to substantially orient and align the surgical buttress “B” over staple cartridge 82.

Staple cartridge 82 defines a distal recess 82 g formed therein for selectively receiving a knife blade insert 83 therein. As seen in FIGS. 20, 21 and 26-32, distal recess 82 g of staple cartridge 82 defines a plane that is substantially parallel to a tissue contacting surface thereof and includes an extension that is substantially aligned with longitudinal slot 82 c.

As seen in FIG. 31, knife blade insert 83 includes a projection 83 a, in the form of a nub or the like, for snap-fit engaging a complementary receiving structure 74 a (see FIG. 20) formed in knife blade 74 of cartridge assembly 18 (see FIG. 2). While a knife blade insert 83 having a projection 83 a is shown, it is envisioned that knife blade insert 83 may include a recess or depression formed therein that is configured and adapted for snap-fit engagement with a complementary projection extending from knife blade 74.

As seen in FIG. 32, knife blade insert 83 functions to maintain knife blade 74 in the first condition, i.e., located proximal of the distal pair of recesses 82 f of staple cartridge 82, until actuated by drive assembly 50.

Turning now to FIG. 33, a distal end of a cartridge assembly 18, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, is generally designated as 118. Cartridge assembly 118 is substantially similar to cartridge assembly 18 and will only be discussed in detail herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation.

As best seen in FIGS. 22, 24 and 25, at least one recess of each of the proximal pair of recesses 70 d and the distal pair of recesses 70 e is in the form of a notch having a constricting configuration so as to frictionally cinch, receive and secure a suture, thread or the like therein. As seen in FIG. 33, cartridge assembly 18 includes a knife blade 194 operatively secured in a distal end of carrier 80 or staple cartridge 82. If knife blade 194 is supported in staple cartridge 82, knife blade 194 is replaced when staple cartridge 82 is replaced.

Knife blade 194 includes an arm 194 a having a distal end secured near a distal end of carrier 80 or staple cartridge 82, and a proximal end extending substantially toward handle assembly 12 of surgical stapling apparatus 10. Knife blade 194 includes a knife edge 194 b extending from proximal end of arm 194 a in a direction substantially parallel with longitudinal slot 82 c of staple cartridge 82. Knife edge 194 b of knife blade 194 is substantially aligned between the distal pair of recesses 82 f of staple cartridge 82, such that knife edge 194 b is in juxtaposed alignment with an anchor “S” extending between the distal pair of recesses 82 f of staple cartridge 82. Arm 194 a of knife blade 194 has an initial condition wherein knife edge 194 b is spaced away from anchor “S” extending between the distal pair of recesses 82 f of staple cartridge 82.

In operation, as drive assembly 50 is advanced distally, actuation sled 90 (e.g., central upstanding wedge 90 b) engages against the proximal end of arm 194 a of knife blade 194 thereby biasing and camming the proximal end of arm 194 a of knife blade 194 towards anchor “S” extending between the distal pair of recesses 82 f of staple cartridge 82 such that knife edge 194 b thereof severs or otherwise cuts through anchor “S” to free surgical buttress “B” from staple cartridge 82.

Knife edge 194 b is retracted into staple cartridge 82 as a result of the spring force created by arm 194 a in returning to the un-biased or initial condition. Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 33, a biasing member 195, in the form of a compression spring or the like, may be interposed between or operatively associated with carrier 80 and actuation sled 90. In this manner, upon a completion of a firing stroke, actuation sled 90 compresses biasing member 195, and upon a removal of the force required to complete the firing stroke, biasing member 195 extends and thus urges actuation sled 90 in a proximal direction thereby allowing knife edge 194 b to retract into staple cartridge 82.

Exemplary surgical buttresses “B” for use with the surgical stapling devices disclosed herein are shown and described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,542,594; 5,908,427; 5,964,774; and 6,045,560, and commonly assigned U.S. Application Serial Nos. 2006/0085034, filed on Apr. 20, 2006; and 2006/0135992, filed on Jun. 22, 2006, the entire contents of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

As seen throughout the figures, and in particular FIGS. 2, 9-11, 13, 14, 20 and 26, each surgical buttress “B” may be provided with a pair of proximal and/or a pair of distal, spaced apart holes formed therein, wherein the proximal and/or distal holes of the surgical buttress “B” align with and/or are in juxtaposed relation to respective proximal and/or distal recesses of the anvil plate and/or staple cartridge. The holes of the surgical buttress “B” allow for more efficient and easier attachment of surgical buttress “B” to the anvil plate and/or staple cartridge by anchors “S”.

Turning now to FIGS. 34-36, an anvil assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, for use in a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus, is generally designated as 220. Anvil assembly 220 is substantially similar to anvil assemblies 20 and thus will only be discussed herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation thereof.

As seen in FIGS. 34-36, anvil assembly 220 includes a knife blade 274 pivotally secured thereto, in particular, near a distal end thereof. Knife blade 274 is positioned so as to rotate about a pivot point to sever anchor “S” as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced to a distal-most position in anvil assembly 220.

In particular, with continued reference to FIGS. 34-36, anvil assembly 220 includes a pivot point 276 b formed in distal cap 276, in cover plate 272 and/or in anvil plate 270 for pivotally engaging or supporting knife blade 274. Knife blade 274 includes a lobe 274 a defining a pivot window 274 b configured and dimensioned to pivotally engage pivot point 276 b. Pivot point 276 b and pivot window 274 b define a pivot axis “Y” that is spaced a distance from a longitudinal axis “X” of longitudinal slot 270 b of anvil plate 270.

Knife blade 274 defines a camming edge 274 c extending across longitudinal slot 270 b of anvil plate 270, and a knife edge 274 d extending transverse to camming edge 274 c. Knife blade 274 is configured and dimensioned such that a portion of camming edge 274 c and/or a portion of knife edge 274 d extend across anchor “S”.

As seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, knife blade 274 has a first position in which knife edge 274 d does not extend across recesses 270 e and is out of engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the first position, knife edge 274 d of knife blade 274 includes a portion extending proximally of recesses 270 e and a portion extending distally of recesses 270 e. Additionally, when in the first position, knife edge 274 d of knife blade 274 is disposed between recesses 270 e. Also, when in the first position, camming edge 274 c of knife blade 274 includes at least a portion extending proximally of recesses 270 e.

As seen in FIG. 36, knife blade 274 has a second position in which knife edge 274 d extends across a recess 270 e and is in engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the second position, knife edge 274 d of knife blade 274 includes a portion extending or disposed beyond recess 270 e.

In operation, during firing of surgical stapling apparatus 10, as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced (i.e., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), drive assembly 50 causes knife blade 274 to slice through anchor “S”, thereby freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress (see FIG. 2). In particular, with knife blade 274 in the first position, as seen in FIG. 35, as drive assembly 50 is advanced distally, drive assembly 50 contacts or engages camming edge 274 c of knife blade 274, as indicated by arrow “A”. As drive assembly 50 is further advanced distally, drive assembly 50 creates a moment around pivot point 276 b causing knife blade 274 to rotate thereabout, as indicated by arrow “B”. In so doing, as seen in FIG. 36, knife edge 274 d of knife blade 274 is advanced or rotated through anchor “S” thus severing anchor “S” and freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress (see FIG. 2).

Turning now to FIGS. 37-39, a cartridge assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, for use in a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus, is generally designated as 218. Cartridge assembly 218 is substantially similar to cartridge assemblies 18 and thus will only be discussed herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation thereof.

As seen in FIGS. 37-39, cartridge assembly 218 includes a knife blade 294 pivotally secured thereto, in particular, near a distal end thereof. Knife blade 294 is positioned so as to rotate about a pivot point to sever anchor “S” as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced to a distal-most position in cartridge assembly 218.

In particular, with continued reference to FIGS. 37-39, cartridge assembly 218 includes a pivot point 283 a formed in knife blade insert 283 and/or staple cartridge 282 for pivotally engaging or supporting knife blade 294. Knife blade 294 includes a lobe 294 a defining a pivot window 294 b configured and dimensioned to pivotally engage pivot point 283 a. Pivot point 283 a and pivot window 294 b define a pivot axis “Y” that is spaced a distance from a longitudinal axis “X” of longitudinal slot 282 c of staple cartridge 282.

Knife blade 294 defines a back or camming edge 294 c extending across longitudinal slot 282 c of staple cartridge 282, and a knife edge 294 d extending parallel to camming edge 294 c. Knife blade 294 is configured and dimensioned such that camming edge 294 c and knife edge 294 d are located proximal of anchor “S”.

As seen in FIGS. 37 and 38, knife blade 294 has a first position in which knife edge 294 d does not extend across recesses 282 f and is out of engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the first position, knife edge 294 d of knife blade 294 is located proximal of recess 282 f.

As seen in FIG. 39, knife blade 294 has a second position in which knife edge 294 d extends across a recess 282 f and is in engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the second position, knife edge 294 d of knife blade 294 includes a portion extending or disposed beyond recess 282 f.

In operation, during firing of surgical stapling apparatus 10, as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced (i.e., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), drive assembly 50 causes knife blade 294 to slice through anchor “S”, thereby freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B”. In particular, with knife blade 294 in the first position, as seen in FIG. 38, as drive assembly 50 is advanced distally, drive assembly 50 contacts or engages camming edge 294 c of knife blade 294, as indicated by arrow “A”. As drive assembly 50 is further advanced distally, drive assembly 50 creates a moment around pivot point 283 a causing knife blade 294 to rotate thereabout, as indicated by arrow “B”. In so doing, as seen in FIG. 39, knife edge 294 d of knife blade 294 is advanced or rotated through anchor “S” thus severing anchor “S” and freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B”.

Turning now to FIGS. 40-42, an anvil assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, for use in a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus, is generally designated as 320. Anvil assembly 320 is substantially similar to anvil assembly 220 and thus will only be discussed herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation thereof.

As seen in FIGS. 40-42, anvil assembly 320 includes a knife blade 374 pivotally secured thereto, in particular, near a distal end thereof. Knife blade 374 is positioned so as to rotate about a pivot point to sever anchor “S” as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced to a distal-most position in anvil assembly 320.

In particular, with continued reference to FIGS. 40-42, anvil assembly 320 includes a pivot point 376 b formed in distal cap 376, in cover plate (not shown) and/or in anvil plate 370 for pivotally engaging or supporting knife blade 374. Knife blade 374 includes a lobe 374 a defining a pivot window 374 b configured and dimensioned to pivotally engage pivot point 376 b. Pivot point 376 b and pivot window 374 b define a pivot axis “Y” that is spaced a distance from a longitudinal axis “X” of longitudinal slot 370 b of anvil plate 370.

Knife blade 374 defines a camming edge 374 c extending across longitudinal slot 370 b of anvil plate 370, and a knife edge 374 d extending transverse to camming edge 374 c. Knife blade 374 is configured and dimensioned such that camming edge 374 c is disposed proximally of anchor “S” and a portion of knife edge 374 d extends across anchor “S”.

As seen in FIGS. 40 and 41, knife blade 374 has a first position in which knife edge 374 d does not extend across recesses 370 e and is out of engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the first position, knife edge 374 d of knife blade 374 includes a portion extending proximally of recesses 370 e. Also, when in the first position, camming edge 374 c of knife blade 374 is disposed or located proximally of recesses 370 e.

As seen in FIG. 42, knife blade 374 has a second position in which knife edge 374 d extends across a recess 370 e and is in engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the second position, knife edge 374 d of knife blade 374 includes a portion extending or disposed beyond recess 370 e.

In operation, during firing of surgical stapling apparatus 10, as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced (i.e., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), drive assembly 50 causes knife blade 374 to slice through anchor “S”, thereby freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress (see FIG. 2). In particular, with knife blade 374 in the first position, as seen in FIG. 41, as drive assembly 50 is advanced distally, drive assembly 50 contacts or engages camming edge 374 c of knife blade 374, as indicated by arrow “A”. As drive assembly 50 is further advanced distally, drive assembly 50 creates a moment around pivot point 376 b causing knife blade 374 to rotate thereabout, as indicated by arrow “B”. In so doing, as seen in FIG. 42, knife edge 374 d of knife blade 374 is advanced or rotated through anchor “S” thus severing anchor “S” and freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress (see FIG. 2).

Turning now to FIGS. 43-45, a cartridge assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, for use in a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus, is generally designated as 318. Cartridge assembly 318 is substantially similar to cartridge assembly 218 and thus will only be discussed herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation thereof.

As seen in FIGS. 43-45, cartridge assembly 318 includes a knife blade 394 pivotally secured thereto, in particular, near a distal end thereof. Knife blade 394 is positioned so as to rotate about a pivot point to sever anchor “S” as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced to a distal-most position in cartridge assembly 318.

In particular, with continued reference to FIGS. 43-45, cartridge assembly 318 includes a pivot point 383 a formed in knife blade insert 383 and/or staple cartridge 382 for pivotally engaging or supporting knife blade 394. Knife blade 394 includes a lobe 394 a defining a pivot window 394 b configured and dimensioned to pivotally engage pivot point 383 a. Pivot point 383 a and pivot window 394 b define a pivot axis “Y” that is spaced a distance from a longitudinal axis “X” of longitudinal slot 382 c of staple cartridge 382.

Knife blade 394 defines a back or camming edge 394 c extending across longitudinal slot 382 c of staple cartridge 382, and a knife edge 394 d extending parallel to camming edge 394 c. Knife blade 394 is configured and dimensioned such that camming edge 394 c and knife edge 394 d are located proximal of anchor “S”.

As seen in FIGS. 43 and 44, knife blade 394 has a first position in which knife edge 394 d does not extend across recesses 382 f and is out of engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the first position, knife edge 394 d of knife blade 394 is located proximal of recess 382 f.

As seen in FIG. 45, knife blade 394 has a second position in which knife edge 394 d extends across a recess 382 f and is in engagement with anchor “S”. In particular, when in the second position, knife edge 394 d of knife blade 394 includes a portion extending or disposed beyond recess 382 f.

In operation, during firing of surgical stapling apparatus 10, as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced (i.e., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), drive assembly 50 pushes actuation sled 90 into knife blade 394 causing knife blade 394 to slice through anchor “S”, thereby freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B”. In particular, with knife blade 394 in the first position, as seen in FIG. 44, as drive assembly 50 is advanced distally, drive assembly 50 moved actuation sled 90 into contact or engagement with camming edge 394 c of knife blade 394, as indicated by arrow “A”. As drive assembly 50 is further advanced distally, actuation sled 90 creates a moment around pivot point 383 a causing knife blade 394 to rotate thereabout, as indicated by arrow “B”. In so doing, as seen in FIG. 45, knife edge 394 d of knife blade 394 is advanced or rotated through anchor “S” thus severing anchor “S” and freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B”.

Turning now to FIG. 46, an anvil assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, for use in a DLU of a surgical stapling apparatus, is generally designated as 420. Anvil assembly 420 is substantially similar to anvil assemblies 220 and 320 and thus will only be discussed herein to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation thereof.

As seen in FIG. 46, anvil assembly 420 includes a knife blade 474 pivotally secured thereto, in particular, near a distal end thereof. Knife blade 474 is positioned so as to rotate about a pivot point to sever anchor “S” as drive assembly 50 (see FIG. 2) is advanced to a distal-most position in anvil assembly 420.

In particular, with continued reference to FIG. 46, anvil assembly 420 includes a pivot point 476 b formed in distal cap 476, in the cover plate (not shown) and/or in anvil plate 470 for pivotally engaging or supporting knife blade 474. Knife blade 474 includes a lobe 474 a defining a pivot window 474 b configured and dimensioned to pivotally engage pivot point 476 b. Pivot point 476 b and pivot window 474 b define a pivot axis “Y” that is spaced a distance from a longitudinal axis “X” of longitudinal slot 470 b of anvil plate 470.

Knife blade 474 defines a camming edge 474 c extending across longitudinal slot 470 b of anvil plate 470, and a knife edge 474 d extending transverse to camming edge 474 c. Knife blade 474 is configured and dimensioned such that camming edge 474 c is disposed proximally of the anchor (not shown) and a portion of knife edge 474 d extends across anchor.

As seen in FIG. 46, knife blade 474 has a first position in which knife edge 474 d does not extend across recesses 470 e and is out of engagement with anchor. In particular, when in the first position, knife edge 474 d of knife blade 474 includes a portion extending proximally of recesses 470 e and a portion extending distally of recesses 470 e. Also, when in the first position, camming edge 474 c of knife blade 474 is disposed or located proximally of recesses 470 e.

Turning now to FIGS. 47-75, an end effector, configured for use or connection with a handle of an endoscopic surgical stapling apparatus is generally designated as 1000. End effector 1000 includes a cartridge assembly 1200 housing a plurality of surgical fasteners or staples 1228 (see FIG. 48) and an anvil assembly 1300 movably secured in relation to cartridge assembly 1200. End effector 1000 measures from about 30 mm to about 60 mm in length. End effector 1000 may be configured to apply six (6) linear rows of staples.

As seen in FIGS. 47-49, end effector 1000 is configured as a disposable loading unit configured for selective connection with a handle assembly (not shown).

As seen in FIG. 49, end effector 1000 includes an axial drive assembly 1150 operatively associated with and slidably disposed between cartridge assembly 1200 and anvil assembly 1300. Axial drive assembly 1150 includes an elongated drive beam 1152 having a distal end 1152 a and a proximal end 1152 b. Drive beam 1152 is constructed from multiple stacked beams.

Proximal end 1152 b of drive beam 1152 is formed as a pair of resilient engagement fingers which are dimensioned and configured to mountingly engage a drive or control rod (not shown) when the proximal end of end effector 1000 is connected to the handle assembly.

Distal end 1152 a of drive beam 1152 is configured as an I-beam including an upper and lower rail portion 1154 a, 1154 b, respectively, extending transversely therefrom. A distal edge of a central beam of drive beam 1152 defines a knife blade 1156.

As seen in FIGS. 49-62, cartridge assembly 1200 includes a carrier 1210 defining an elongated support channel 1212. Elongated support channel 1212 of carrier 1210 is dimensioned and configured to selectively receive a staple cartridge 1220 therein. Corresponding tabs and slots formed along staple cartridge 1220 and carrier 1210 function to retain staple cartridge 1220 within carrier 1210. Staple cartridge 1220 includes retention slots 1222 formed therein for receiving a plurality of surgical staples 1224 and pushers 1226.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 50, 53 and 55, cartridge assembly 1200 further includes an actuation sled 1228 slidably disposed between staple cartridge 1220 and carrier 1210. Actuation sled 1228 includes a central upstanding wedge or wall 1228 a flanked by a pair of outer cam wedges or walls 1228 b. Central wall 1228 a defines a distal notch or shoulder 1228 c formed therein.

As seen in FIGS. 49 and 60, a central longitudinal slot 1234 is formed in and extends along the length of staple cartridge 1220 to enable passage of drive beam 1152 therethrough. During operation of the surgical stapler, actuation sled 1228 translates along staple cartridge 1220 and carrier 1210 to advance outer cam wedges 1228 b into sequential contact with pushers 1226, to cause pushers 1226 to translate vertically within retention slots 1222 and urge staples 1224 from slots 1222 into the staple forming cavities 1312 of anvil plate 1310 of anvil assembly 1300 (see FIG. 66).

With reference to FIGS. 56-59, staple cartridge 1220 defines a proximal pair of recesses 1236 formed near a proximal end thereof and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 1234. Staple cartridge 1220 further defines a distal pair of recesses 1238 formed near a distal end thereof and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 1234. As seen in FIGS. 57-59, at least one recess of each of the proximal pair of recesses 1236 and the distal pair of recesses 1238 is in the form of a slot or notch having a constricting profile so as to frictionally engage and/or pinch a suture “S”.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 53, 54, 57 and 60-62, cartridge assembly 1200 further includes a knife blade 1240 defining a distally oriented knife edge 1242 and being pivotally supported in staple cartridge 1220. Knife blade 1240 has an initial or first condition wherein knife edge 1242 is positioned proximal of one of the distal pair of recesses 1238 and a final or second condition wherein knife edge 1242 is positioned distal of the one of the distal pair of recesses 1238.

Cartridge assembly 1200 includes a knife blade housing 1246 supported in staple cartridge 1220 at a location associated with the distal pair of recesses 1238. As seen in FIG. 61, knife blade housing 1246 includes a hub 1246 a onto which knife blade 1240 is rotatably connected.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 51, 52 and 54-59, cartridge assembly 1200 further includes a surgical cartridge buttress “B1” operatively secured to an upper surface of staple cartridge 1220, by sutures “S”, to overlie at least some of retention slots 1222 and/or at least a portion of a length of longitudinal slot 1234. Surgical cartridge buttress “B1” includes a proximal end portion in the form of tongue “B1 a” having a transverse width dimension which is less than a transverse width dimension of surgical cartridge buttress “B1”, and a distal end portion in the form of tongue “B1 b” having a transverse width dimension which is less than the transverse width dimension of surgical cartridge buttress “B1”. The proximal end portion “B1 a” of surgical cartridge buttress “B1” defines a pair of apertures “B1 c” formed therein for receiving posts 1252 of staple cartridge 1220 therein. A first suture “S1” is threaded through each of the distal pair of recesses 1238 and around/over distal tongue “B1 b” of cartridge buttress “B1” and, and a second suture “S2” is threaded through each of the proximal pair of recesses 1236 and around/over proximal tongue “B1 a” of cartridge buttress “B1”.

A first end of each suture “S1, S2” is anchored or fixed in a respective one recesses of the proximal and distal pair of recesses 1236, 1238 while a second end of each suture “S1, S2” passes transversely across respective distal and proximal tongues “B1 b, B1 a” of cartridge buttress “B1” and is anchored or fixed in a respective other recess of the proximal and distal pair of recesses 1236, 1238.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 56 and 58, staple cartridge 1220 includes a pair of spaced apart posts 1252 disposed on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 1234. Posts 1252 are located distal of and adjacent to proximal suture “S2”. Posts 1252 are received in openings formed in cartridge buttress “B1”. Posts 1252 function to maintain the position of cartridge buttress “B1” relative to staple cartridge 1220 as drive assembly 1150 is moved distally. Posts 1252 also function to brace proximal sutures “S2” as drive assembly 1150 is moved distally.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 51-55 and 63-67, anvil assembly 1300 includes an anvil plate 1310 having a plurality of staple deforming pockets/cavities 1312 (see FIG. 66) and a cover plate 1320 secured to a top surface of anvil plate 1310, wherein a cavity 1313 is defined therebetween. The cavity defined between anvil plate 1310 and cover plate 1320 is dimensioned to slidably receive upper rail portion 1154 a of drive beam 1152 therein. A longitudinal slot 1314 extends through anvil plate 1310 to facilitate passage of drive beam 1152 therethrough.

In operation, an upper surface of anvil plate 1310 defines a camming surface 1310 a against which upper rail portion 1154 a of drive beam 1152 engages to cam, urge and clamp anvil assembly 1300 against the tissue as drive assembly 1150 advances drive beam 1152 through longitudinal slot 1314.

With continued reference to FIGS. 49, 51, 52 and 63-67, anvil plate 1310 defines a proximal pair of recesses 1316 formed near a proximal end of anvil plate 1310 and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 1314. Anvil plate 1310 defines a distal pair of recesses 1318 formed near a distal end of anvil plate 1310 and disposed, one each, on opposed sides of longitudinal slot 1314. At least one recess of each of the proximal pair of recesses 1316 and the distal pair of recesses 1318 is in the form of a slot or notch having a constricting profile so as to frictionally engage and/or pinch a suture “S”.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 51-54 and 64-67, anvil assembly 1300 further includes a knife blade 1330 defining a distally oriented knife edge 1332 and being pivotably interposed within the cavity defined between anvil plate 1310 and cover plate 1320. Knife blade 1330 has an initial or first condition wherein knife edge 1332 is positioned proximal of one of the distal pair of recesses 1318 and a final or second condition wherein knife edge 1332 is positioned distal of the one of the distal pair of recesses 1318.

As seen in FIGS. 49, 51-54 and 64-67, anvil assembly 1300 includes a knife blade housing 1336 supported between anvil plate 1310 and cover plate 1320 at a location associated with the distal pair of recesses 1318. As seen in FIGS. 64 and 67, knife blade housing 1336 includes a hub 1336 a onto which knife blade 1330 is rotatably connected.

Anvil assembly 1300 further includes a surgical anvil buttress “B2” operatively secured to a lower surface of anvil plate 1310, by sutures “S”, to overlie at least some of anvil pockets 1312 a and/or at least a portion of a length of longitudinal slot 1314. Surgical anvil buttress “B2” includes a proximal end portion in the form of tongue “B2 a” having a transverse width dimension which is less than a transverse width dimension of surgical anvil buttress “B2”, and a distal end portion in the form of tongue “B2 b” having a transverse width dimension which is less than the transverse width dimension of surgical anvil buttress “B2”. A first suture “S3” is threaded through each of the distal pair of recesses 1318, and a second suture “S4” is threaded through each of the proximal pair of recesses 1316.

A first end of suture “S3” is anchored or fixed in a recess of the distal pair of recesses 1318 and a second end of suture “S3” passes around/over distal tongue “B2 b” of anvil buttress “B2”, transversely thereacross anvil buttress “B2”, so as to be anchored or fixed in the other recess of the distal pair of recesses 1318.

A first end of suture “S4” is anchored or fixed in a recess of the proximal pair of recesses 1316 while a second end of suture “S4” passes around/over proximal tongue “B2 a” of anvil buttress “B2” and is anchored or fixed in the other recess of the proximal and pair of recesses 1316.

As seen in FIGS. 47-49, 51, 63 and 65-67, cover plate 1320 of anvil assembly 1300 includes a pair of walls 1322 extending in a direction of anvil plate 1310. Walls 1322 are formed near a proximal end of cover plate 1320 and extend from opposed side edges thereof. Walls 1322 are configured such that when cartridge assembly 1200 and anvil assembly 1300 are in a closed or clamped condition, walls 1322 extends across a tissue gap defined therebetween. Walls 1322 function as tissue stops, inhibiting tissue flow in a proximal direction during a clamping or closing of end effector 1000.

In operation, as seen in FIGS. 68-72, with anvil buttress “B2” secured against the lower surface of anvil plate 1310, during firing of the surgical stapling apparatus, as drive assembly 1150 is advanced (e.g., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), knife blade 1156 slices through a central section of suture “S4”, thereby freeing the proximal end of anvil buttress “B2” from anvil assembly 1300. As drive assembly 1150 approaches the distal end of anvil assembly 1300, upper rail portion 1154 a of drive beam 1152 abuts against and urges knife blade 1330 to rotate distally. As knife blade 1330 is rotated distally, knife edge 1332 is rotated from the initial or first condition positioned proximal of one of the distal pair of recesses 1318 to the final or second condition positioned distal of the one of the distal pair of recesses 1318. In so doing, knife edge 1332 slices or cuts through suture “S3”, thereby freeing the distal end of the anvil buttress “B2” from anvil assembly 1300.

Concomitantly therewith, in operation, as seen in FIGS. 68-75, with cartridge buttress “B1” secured against the tissue contacting surface of staple cartridge 1220, during firing of the surgical stapling apparatus, as drive assembly 1150 is advanced (e.g., moved from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position), knife blade 1156 slices through a central section of the proximal suture “S2”, thereby freeing the proximal end of the cartridge buttress “B1” from cartridge assembly 1200.

As drive assembly 1150 approaches the distal end of staple cartridge 1220, shoulder 1228 c of central upstanding wedge or wall 1228 a of actuation sled 1228 abuts against and urges knife blade 1240 to rotate distally. As knife blade 1240 is rotated distally, knife edge 1242 is rotated from the initial or first condition positioned proximal of one of the distal pair of recesses 1238 to the final or second condition positioned distal of the one of the distal pair of recesses 1238. In so doing, knife edge 1242 slices or cuts through distal suture “S1”, thereby freeing the distal end of the cartridge buttress “B1” from cartridge assembly 1200.

As drive assembly 1150 is advanced from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position, knife blade 1156 thereof slices or cuts longitudinally through both cartridge buttress “B1” and anvil buttress “B”, thereby dividing the buttresses “B1, B2” substantially in half. Additionally, as drive assembly 1150 is advanced from a proximal-most position to a distal-most position, upstanding cam wedges 1228 b of actuation sled 1228 actuates pushers 1226, to cause pushers 1226 to translate vertically within retention slots 1222 and urge staples 1224 from slots 1222. As staples 1224 are urged from slots 1222 of staple cartridge 1220, legs of staples 1224 penetrate and pass through both cartridge buttress “B1” and anvil buttress “B2”, through any tissue (not shown) interposed between cartridge buttress “B1” and anvil buttress “B2”, and are formed against or within staple deforming pockets 1312 of anvil plate 1310 of anvil assembly 1300.

Surgical buttresses “B1, B2” are each fabricated from a suitable biocompatible and bioabsorbable material. Surgical buttresses “B1, B2” are each fabricated from a non-absorbent material which does not retain fluid. Surgical buttresses “B1, B2” are each fabricated from “BIOSYN” made from GLYCOMER 631 (a block copolymer), a synthetic polyester composed of glycolide, dioxanone and trimethylene carbonate.

One block of the resulting copolymer contains randomly combined units derived from p-dioxanone (1,4-dioxan-2-one) and trimethylene carbonate (1,3-dioxan-2-one). The second block of the copolymer contains randomly combined units derived from glycolide and p-dioxanone. The resulting polyester is an ABA triblock terpolymer possessing about 60% glycolide, about 14% dioxanone, and about 26% trimethylene carbonate.

End effector 1000 is shown in FIGS. 47 and 48 as being capable of articulation about a pivot point. Cartridge assembly 1200 and anvil assembly 1300 may form a part of a non-articulating SULU.

While the above-described embodiments surgical staplers incorporating the use of movable knife blades to sever and release surgical buttresses from the tissue contacting surfaces of the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly have been shown and described in relation to endoscopic surgical staplers, it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure that any of the above-embodiments may be incorporated into any type of surgical stapler, including and not limited to open surgical staplers, such as, for example, linear surgical staplers; arcuate or annular surgical staplers; and transverse surgical staplers.

It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the stapling apparatus need not apply staples but rather may apply two part fasteners as is known in the art. Further, the length of the linear row of staples or fasteners may be modified to meet the requirements of a particular surgical procedure. Thus, the length of a single stroke of the actuation shaft and/or the length of the linear row of staples and/or fasteners within a disposable loading unit may be varied accordingly. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended thereto. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of releasing a surgical buttress from a surgical stapling apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: providing a tool assembly including a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly defining a longitudinal axis, at least one of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly being movable in relation to the other of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly; providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly, the surgical buttress secured to the anvil assembly by a first connecting member extending transversely across the surgical buttress, the anvil assembly configured to receive a portion of the first connecting member; providing a drive assembly slidably disposed through the tool assembly; providing a release mechanism operatively engaged with the drive assembly and configured to engage the first connecting member; moving the drive assembly along the longitudinal axis; and contacting the release mechanism with the drive assembly such that the release mechanism severs the first connecting member by an actuation of the release mechanism along the longitudinal axis to release the surgical buttress from the anvil assembly.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to the tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly includes providing a second connecting member to secure the surgical buttress at a location proximal of the first connecting member.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the step of providing a drive assembly includes providing a distally oriented knife edge on the drive assembly.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of moving the drive assembly along the longitudinal axis includes severing the second connecting member with the knife edge of the drive assembly.
 5. The method of claim 2, wherein the step of providing a drive assembly includes providing a knife edge on the drive assembly that is orthogonally disposed with respect to the second connecting member.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of providing a release mechanism includes providing a knife edge on the release mechanism.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the step of providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly includes the first connecting member including a portion extending through the tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of moving the drive assembly along the longitudinal axis includes severing the portion of the first connecting member extending through the tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly with the knife edge of the release mechanism.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of providing a release mechanism includes providing the release mechanism laterally spaced away from the tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly.
 10. A method of releasing a surgical buttress from a surgical stapling apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: providing a tool assembly including a cartridge assembly defining a longitudinal axis and an anvil assembly, at least one of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly being movable in relation to the other of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly; providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly, the surgical buttress secured to the cartridge assembly by a first connecting member extending transversely across the surgical buttress, the cartridge assembly configured to receive a portion of the first connecting member; providing a drive assembly slidably disposed through the tool assembly; providing a release mechanism operatively engaged with the drive assembly and configured to engage the first connecting member; moving the drive assembly along the longitudinal axis; and contacting the release mechanism with the drive assembly such that the release mechanism severs the first connecting member by an actuation of the release mechanism along the longitudinal axis to release the surgical buttress from the cartridge assembly.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly includes providing a second connecting member to secure the surgical buttress at a location proximal of the first connecting member.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of providing a drive assembly includes providing a distally oriented knife edge on the drive assembly.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of moving the drive assembly along the longitudinal axis includes severing the second connecting member with the knife edge of the drive assembly.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of providing a drive assembly includes providing a knife edge on the drive assembly that is disposed orthogonally with respect to the second connecting member.
 15. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of providing a release mechanism includes providing a knife edge on the release mechanism.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly includes the first connecting member including a portion extending through the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the step of moving the drive assembly along the longitudinal axis includes severing the portion of the first connecting member extending through the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly with the knife edge of the release mechanism.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of providing a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly includes the first connecting member including a pair of portions extending through the tissue contacting surface.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of providing a drive assembly includes providing a pair of laterally spaced knife edges on the release mechanism, each knife of the pair of laterally spaced knife edges being configured to engage a respective portion of the pair of portions of the connecting member extending through the tissue contacting surface upon distal advancement of the drive assembly.
 20. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of providing a release mechanism includes providing the release mechanism laterally spaced away from the tissue contacting surface of the cartridge assembly. 